Probably the most asked about word – in terms of what it means – in our line of stones and tokens is Namaste. For those that don’t automatically know what it means, it definitely is an attention getter. I was familiar with the word in the general sense, but decided to dig a little further…
(From: Phylamean lila Desy’s Holistic Healing Glossary, as found on About.com Holistic Healing)
Definition: Namaste is a Hindi salutation or greeting. The word Namaste is a combination of the two Sanskrit words: nama, and te. Basically, nama means “to bow” and te means “you.”
Interpretation: The God/Goddess Spirit within me recognizes and honors the God/Goddess Spirit within you.
Mudra of Namaste: Hands are held together at the palms in front of the heart or brow chakra. Head is bowed slightly downward. Eyes are sometimes closed.
A Yogic Thank You: Yoga students often repeat “Namaste” at the end of each class as a thank you, honoring their instructor.
Equalizer: Namaste is significant because it is a humbling gesture. Namaste is done as a recognition that we are all on equal standings, all of us are children of divinity. We are one.
Who Can Namaste? Namaste can be used as a greeting for all ages, all genders, all races. Namaste greetings can be given to friends, family members, and also strangers.
Written Notation: The word “Namaste” is often used as a closing notation (without the accompanying prayerful hand and bowing head gestures) in written communications similar to “sincerely,” “best regards” or “love.”
Pronunciation: Nah-mah-stay
What a lovely word and gesture! Equalizing and peaceful. I think I need to use it more in my life!
CourageInStone 